Case Study: TMJ Pain & Jaw Locking

Case Summary

A patient with a long history of chronic headaches and jaw locking experienced significant improvement in jaw function and complete resolution of pain following structured treatment and progressive rehabilitation at Bangalow Headache Neck & Jaw Clinic.

Presenting Concern

The patient reported a 10-year history of headaches and a 7-week history of right-side jaw pain. The jaw had locked closed for several days following aggravation, with pain persisting and intermittent jaw locking continuing. The patient had not found lasting relief through previous treatment approaches.

Relevant History & Symptoms

Right-side jaw pain was aggravated by biting hard foods such as raw carrot or large foods such as apples, as well as by moving the jaw to the right. Initial jaw opening measured 41mm. These symptoms are consistent with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, a condition that often presents alongside chronic headaches due to the close relationship between the jaw, neck, and nervous system.

Treatment & Management

Treatment followed a structured, progressive approach consistent with the clinic’s treatment philosophy:

Phase 1 – Initial Treatment (4 sessions): Treatment involved targeted stretches, manual therapy, and jaw-specific home exercises. After four sessions, the patient reported no blockage or pain on opening the jaw. Jaw opening improved from 41mm to 47mm.

Phase 2 – Progressive Rehabilitation (5 months): Some intermittent right-side jaw pain with biting hard food remained. As the TMJ discs are composed of fibrocartilage – a tissue that responds well to graduated loading – an appropriate exercise-based approach was used, with exercises progressing at a suitable rate to stimulate tissue remodelling. The patient was provided with an appropriate exercise tool and reviewed once per month. At each appointment, reassessment was completed and exercises were progressed accordingly.

Outcome

At the conclusion of the five-month rehabilitation phase, the patient reported no pain with biting or chewing, including hard foods. The patient was discharged with a home exercise programme for ongoing self-management.

Clinical Takeaway

This case demonstrates how TMJ dysfunction can respond well to appropriate assessment, targeted manual therapy, and progressive exercise-based rehabilitation over time. Rather than relying solely on passive treatment or medication, a structured approach that addressed the underlying biomechanical issue led to complete symptom resolution.

For patients experiencing jaw pain, jaw clicking, or locking alongside chronic headaches, a thorough assessment of the jaw, neck, and nervous system can uncover connections that standard treatments may miss.

About the Practitioner

 Michael Hayward is a qualified physiotherapist with over 28 years of experience treating patients across the North Coast. Trained in the Watson Headache® Approach and drawing from extensive research and training in Europe and Australia, [he/she] specialises in the assessment and treatment of headaches, migraines, jaw dysfunction, and vestibular disorders. Learn more about our team.

Experiencing Similar Symptoms?

If you’re dealing with jaw pain, jaw locking, TMJ issues, or chronic headaches, we may be able to help. Book an appointment or call us on 0475 75 75 10 to discuss your situation.